The Cypriot National Guard, comprising the Army, Naval Command, and Air Command, serves as the primary defense force of the Republic of Cyprus. As of 2020, the National Guard maintains approximately 15,000 active-duty personnel, including conscripts serving a 12-month term. Additionally, there are about 50,000 reservists who can be mobilized in times of need.
Demographics and Economic Indicators
Cyprus has a population of approximately 1 million people and covers a land area of 9,200 square kilometers. In 2022, the defense budget was around $490 million, accounting for 1.81% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This reflects a commitment to maintaining robust defense capabilities in a region marked by geopolitical complexities.
Army (Land Forces)
The Army component of the National Guard is equipped with a mix of Soviet-era and Western military hardware. The armored units operate T-80U main battle tanks and AMX-30 tanks, while the artillery units are equipped with BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers and various towed artillery pieces. Infantry units utilize small arms such as the G3A3/A4 rifles and have access to MILAN anti-tank missile systems. Recent modernization efforts include the procurement of advanced air defense systems to enhance the island’s defensive posture.
Naval Command
The Naval Command operates patrol boats and coastal surveillance systems to secure the maritime borders of Cyprus. The fleet includes vessels such as the FPB 30 and Sa’ar 62-class patrol boats. In light of recent regional tensions, there have been initiatives to upgrade naval capabilities, including the acquisition of more advanced patrol vessels and the enhancement of maritime surveillance infrastructure.
Air Command
The Air Command’s assets include a limited number of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, primarily for transport, search and rescue, and training purposes. The fleet comprises Bell 206 and Mi-35P helicopters, among others. Recognizing the need to bolster aerial capabilities, Cyprus has been exploring options to procure advanced air defense systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to improve surveillance and defense readiness.
Defense Modernization Initiatives
In response to evolving security challenges, Cyprus has embarked on a comprehensive defense modernization program. This includes the recent acquisition of the Israeli-made Barak MX air defense system, capable of intercepting missiles, drones, and aircraft, with full operational capability expected by mid-2025. Additionally, Cyprus is phasing out outdated Soviet-era equipment in favor of Western-made systems to align more closely with European Union and NATO standards. The lifting of a decades-old U.S. arms embargo has further facilitated access to advanced military technology, enabling the National Guard to enhance its operational effectiveness.
